Firsts

Being in New Zealand has been all about firsts -- doing things I've never done before. Jumping off a mountain (attached to a parasail and guide, but still), learning Maori, going to rugby and cricket games, trying out (not so successfully) indoor rock climbing, and now, running a half-marathon. On Sunday morning I ran the Wellington Harbour 1/2 marathon with 3,500 other people crazy enough to get up and run in rainy and blustery weather. The sun came out at the end, but it was still freezing. Anway, given that I'd probably never run more than 10km before, I considered finishing a major achievement! I ran as part of our Ministry of Maori Development team. The shirts designed for the occasion say "Realising Maori Potential Through Sport" on the back. More than one person commented "Yay -- Michael Campbell!" Refering to the recent Kiwi -- and Maori -- US Open champion, and latest national hero.


Running the Wellington 1/2 Marathon.